While they were still talking about this, 
Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” (Luke 24:36)
 

Luke 24:35-48

Many things in the world disturb our peace and equilibrium. And rightly so. How can we be at peace when so many people in the world are starving, being killed in genocides, ethnic or religious conflicts or invasions while our planet is being destroyed? We don’t want to bury our heads in the sand like the proverbial ostrich and be out of touch with what is going on in the world. God has given us eyes to see and ears to hear the suffering of our brothers and sisters and Mother Earth.

Yet, it’s not good for us to labour under a generalised anxiety. That can paralyse us and make us ineffective in anything we try to do. We can fix our gaze on heaven and hope for eternal peace when our time on Earth is done. But that does not make us more useful here on Earth. It can be helpful to focus on one small thing where we can make a difference for the better, talk about our concerns with other people who are similarly concerned, and know that we will always have events that challenge us.

What difference does the risen Jesus bring? He greets us, “Peace be with you.” As he was approaching his brutal passion and death, he was trying to reassure his disciples with a peace that the world cannot give. He wanted them not to be troubled or afraid (John 14:27). As we face our trials and tribulations, we need to know that God sees, understands, loves and supports us.. 

Even in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Mozambique, Myanmar, DRC, and all the other cruel and deadly conflicts, there is a more significant meaning. That may be no comfort for the people who are suffering the horrendous violence, but sometimes that is the only way to make sense of all the death and destruction. God’s plan for our lives goes beyond the here and now, the day-to-day challenges

Over the centuries, Christians have been responsible for our share of brutality. It is time for us to be a leaven of peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation and not impose our agendas and ideas. 

How do I find meaning in my turmoil? How do I find meaning in other people’s sufferings?

Reflections by Fr Peter Knox, SJ

Lord Jesus,
You desire that no person should suffer. 
Every life is precious in your eyes. Please bless the efforts of everybody dedicated to peace. 
Grant peace to your children worldwide, food to the hungry, and the chance to prosper meaningfully. 
Amen.

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